Traffic display with viewing distance control

ABSTRACT

A sign ( 100 ) displays moving, still, or blank images ( 130 ). In one aspect the sign is mounted over a roadways for viewing by occupants of vehicular traffic ( 105 ) and pedestrians. In another aspect the sign is mounted on a vehicle. An associated sensor ( 125, 220, 221, 222 ) senses the motion of traffic in the vicinity of the sign. When traffic moves at less than a predetermined speed, the sign displays moving or changing information. At greater speeds the display on the sign is either still or blank, so as to avoid distracting nearby drivers. An electronic system ( 135 ) provides various aspects that augment sign operation such as GPS, reception of signage information for use in particular locations, advertiser billing information based on sign usage, and collection and reporting of demographics that aid advertisers in maximizing their impact.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of application Ser. No.14/022,141, Filed 2013 Sep. 9, which claims priority of ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/699,992, filed 2012 Sep. 12.

BACKGROUND Prior Art—Billboard Displays

Today's highly saturated television arena makes it increasinglydifficult for advertisers reach their audiences in a cost-effectivelymanner. The advent of cable, satellite television, and hundreds ofchannels, as well as the fast growing popularity of digital videorecorders, has induced merchants to spend more on advertising. Howeverthe proliferation of media lessens the number of viewers per medium andper advertising dollar. Studies show up to 40% of all advertising iswasted and TV advertising's return on investment today frequently yieldsonly about 1 to 4%. Newspapers are in decline as well, as theiradvertising base dissipates. Clearly, there is a need for a morecost-effective advertising option.

One medium that I believe can be highly effective is electronicbillboard advertising situated adjacent to roadways. The following is alist of some possibly relevant prior art that shows a variety ofbillboard displays. Following this list I provide a discussion of thesereferences.

U.S. Patents Patent or Pub. Nr. Kind Code Issue or Pub. Date Patentee orApplicant 6,060,993 B1 2000 May 09 Cohen 2003/0046158 A1 2003 Mar. 06Kratky 2003/0144906 A1 2003 Jul. 31 Fujimoto et al. 2010/0036717 A1 2010Feb. 11 Trest 7,482,910 B2 2009 Jan. 27 Melvin 2011/0018738 A1 2011 Jan.27 Feroldi

Non-Patent Literature CLARE CARTER, “EU plans to fit all cars with speedlimiters,” The Telegraph, UK, September 1,2013,http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/road-safety/10278702/EU-plans-to-fit-all-cars-with-speed-limiters.html

In the references above, Cohen shows a mobile display system attached tovehicles such as buses and taxis. An on-board controller has satellitecommunication and senses time, date, and location and obtains anddisplays a static message suitable for the location. The network alsotransmits billing records.

Kratky shows a GPS-driven system that targets unique billboard ads todrivers on a particular path to a specified store.

Fujimoto et al. show a display mounted on a traveling vehicle. Data forthe display is supplied from roadside antennas. The content can be adscustomized for a particular geographic location. The display is seen byother vehicles on the road. The system collects identification andtravel routes of paid drivers of the ad-displaying vehicles.

Trest shows a networked mobile display that displays signs andbillboards on a moving vehicle. The display selection can be based onvarious criteria in the vicinity of the displaying vehicle, such asvehicle make, facial ID, body type, cell phone, and the like.

Melvin shows a billboard that displays advertising or other informationkeyed to a specific driver or vehicle. The system includes a camera thatis directed toward a vehicle and that senses information about thevehicle, such as make, model, year, license plate, bumper sticker, etc.Then it causes a suitable message (advertising or information) for thedriver or passengers of the subject vehicle to be displayed on a displaydevice.

Cohen, Kratky, Fujimoto, and Trest all show fixed, i.e., not motion orvideo, context-based messages on a vehicle-mounted display. While theirmessages will be seen, they will not attract as much attention as aconstantly changing video display and hence provide less advertisingvalue.

Feroldi shows a display mounted on a vehicle or on a roadway. Thedisplay on the vehicle shows a moving or still image when the vehicle isstopped or is travelling below a threshold speed and inhibits thedisplay or makes it static when the vehicle moves above the thresholdspeed so that the sign is readable. However Feroldi does not appear todisclose any way of controlling a roadway-mounted sign.

The Claire Carter article shows that The European Union currently plansto fit all cars with speed limiters in an effort to reduce deaths fromvehicle crashes. Speed limiters use satellites, on-board receivers,sign-reading cameras or other means to limit vehicle speed topredetermined values.

SUMMARY

I have discovered a new method for controlling vehicle and roadsidebillboard displays that, in one aspect maximizes their advertisingimpact while minimizing distraction of drivers caused by theiroperation. Through control of the viewing angle of a privacy filter or adirectional roadway display, more distant vehicle occupants that areoutside this viewing angle are not able to see an active display,thereby avoiding driver distraction. However those within the viewingangle, in slowly moving or stopped vehicles, are able to view the activedisplay. Further, the active display can be controlled by monitoring thespeed of vehicles in the vicinity of the display. When the vehicles movefaster than a predetermined speed the display is either made static orinhibited altogether, i.e., it is made blank. When vehicles move slowerthan the predetermined speed the display shows static, periodicallychanging, or active video information. Optionally, accompanying, shortrange FM radio transmissions, satellite radio, on line audio, cell phoneaudio, or another sound-based system can be broadcast in the proximityof the display to complement or supplement display activity.

DRAWING FIGURES

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a roadway display in its active and staticconditions, respectively.

FIG. 1C shows an aspect in which the roadway sign includes a trafficstop light and countdown timer.

FIG. 1D shows one aspect of an electronic control system.

FIG. 1E is a block diagram showing one aspect of operation of theroadway display.

FIG. 2A shows an active display beside directional signage over aroadway.

FIG. 2B shows a free-standing roadside display.

FIG. 2C shows vehicle recognition systems attached to a roadway display.

FIGS. 2D through 2G show the addition of shutters to a roadway display.

FIGS. 2H through 2M show operation of an alternative display.

FIG. 3A shows one aspect of a passenger-vehicle-mounted display.

FIG. 3B shows an electronic control system adapted for use in movingvehicles.

FIG. 3C is a flow chart showing one aspect of operation of a signagesystem.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show aspects of movable displays attached to a vehicle.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative aspect of a movable display attached to avehicle.

FIG. 6 shows one aspect of a display that is mounted diagonally atop avehicle.

FIGS. 7 and 8 shows active displays on a bus and a delivery van,respectively.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a swing-away display that is mounted on hinges on adelivery vehicle.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show two positions of a display that is mounted on apivot.

DRAWING REFERENCE NUMERALS 100 Sign 102 Traffic signal display 104Countdown display 105 Traffic 110 Arm 115 Stanchion 120 Signal light 125Sensor 130 Display 135 System 140 Data resource 141 Data link 142External data link 143 External traffic control logic 145 Computer 146Manual control 150 Memory 155 Advertising 170-190 Blocks 200 Sign 202Beam 205 Shutter 208 Sight line 210 Vehicle 212 Sight line 215 Vehicle220 Vehicle recognition system 221 Sub-surface sensor 222 Surface sensor230 Solar panel 240 Filter 250 Hinge 251 Frame 252 Drive assembly 253Pinion 254 Rack 300 Vehicle 305 Hinge 310 Banner 315 GPS 320 Displayportion 325 Broadcast system 330 Transmitter 340-384 Blocks 400Deflector 405 Hinge point 410 Pivot arm 415 Pivot point 500 Pivot 1000Post 1005 Pivot 1010 Arm 1015 Pin 1020 Spring 1025 Slot

DESCRIPTION First Embodiment—Sign on Stoplight Stanchion—FIGS. 1Athrough 1E

FIG. 1A shows a sign 100 positioned over a roadway over which vehiculartraffic 105 travels. In the present aspect, sign 100 is secured to alateral arm 110 of a stoplight stanchion 115. Stanchion 115 is locatedat an intersection or other location where moving traffic must beperiodically stopped. Arm 110 further includes one or more trafficsignal lights 120 that direct traffic 105 to stop or go, in well-knownfashion. In this aspect, a well-known above ground vehicle sensor 125such as a radar (radio detection and ranging), sonar (sound navigationand ranging), lidar (light detection and ranging), infrared, video, oranother vehicle-sensing system is affixed to sign 100. Sensor 125 canalternatively be secured to arm 110 or stanchion 115. Sensor 125 isoriented so that it detects the speed of vehicles 105 as they passbeneath sign 100. Sensor 125 is arranged to detect the motion of trafficwithin about 100 meters of sign 100, although other distances can beused. Sensor 125 provides a computer-sensible digital signalrepresentative of the average or general speed of vehicles in traffic105. A vehicle recognition system 220 (described below in connectionwith FIG. 2C) can be used in conjunction with or instead of sensor 125.

Sign 100 includes a visible display 130 that displays visual imagesthrough the use of any outdoor display, preferably an array or discreteand organic light-emitting diodes, or alternatively the display can usea plasma screen, a liquid-crystal screen, an electromechanical screen, avideo projection screen, a mems (micro-electrical mechanical systems)projection display, etc.

Sign 100 can be seen by motorists in traffic 105 as they approach sign100. Sign 100 receives information from a data resource or source 140(FIG. 1D) that in turn receives information to be displayed viasatellite, radio, television, Internet, or hard-wired connection, or alocally installed memory device, or another data resource in well-knownfashion. Resource 140 is also used to receive and relay informationabout the use of system 135 (or 135′, FIG. 3B) for billing andinformational purposes. For example the number of seconds sign 100displays advertising material for a particular advertiser can berecorded and stored or forwarded from resource 140 so that theadvertiser can be billed for the amount of time his message was actuallydisplayed. Billing is based on an algorithm comprising one or moreweighted factors, including time of day, duration of message exposure,direction of exposed traffic, day of week, holiday impact, local specialevents, weather conditions, location of display or GPS determinedlocation of mobile display, demographics of vehicle/occupants,geographical demographics and the demand for advertising at thisparticular location.

In FIG. 1A, display 130 on sign 100 is shown as a moving video display.FIG. 1B shows display 130′ on sign 100 as a static display, i.e., theimage in display 130′ does not change with time. In one aspect, staticdisplay 130′ is blank, i.e. it contains no visible information and canbe either illuminated, i.e., with a color, grey, or dark. Display 130′is blank or dark when no paid advertising information is available fordisplay 130′, or when local authorities require this to be the case, forexample. Sensor 125 is atop sign 100, although it can be on the sides,bottom, or even built into sign 100.

While traffic signal 120 in FIG. 1A is separate from display 100, it canbe incorporated into sign 100 as shown by traffic signal 100 in FIG. 1Cwhere colored lights Red, Yellow, and Green indicate “stop”, “caution”,and “go” instructions to traffic 105. A countdown display 104 indicatesthe time remaining in seconds until a “green” or “go” signal or untildisplay 102 changes.

FIG. 1D shows an electronic system 135 for controlling sign 100. System135 and sign 100 are energized by local power mains or batteries thatare fed by electrical sources such as solar panels 230 (FIG. 2D) thatreceive solar energy. System 135 comprises data resource 140, a computer145, a memory 150, sign 100, and sensor 125.

Resource 140 contains programmed instructions for the operation of sign100 and one or more images 130, 130′ (FIG. 1A), etc. Resource 140 is aslave computer with a memory that receives information sent to it fromanother computer. The information it receives controls operation ofsigns 100, broadcasts, and the like from any remote source (not shown)such as another computer connected via the Internet. An external datalink 142, such as a satellite link, radio, Internet, or wiredconnection, connects resource 140 to external traffic control logic,that provides traffic signal control timing for traffic control signal102 and countdown display 104. In one aspect, when resource 140 receivesa “green” or “go” signal from logic 143 programmed instructions withinresource 140 cause sign 100 to display a static image so that drivers ofvehicles in traffic 105 are not distracted.

Computer 145 contains a microprocessor or other logic (not shown) thatobtains information from resource 140 and stores it in a memory 150.Computer 145 then retrieves these programmed instructions as needed, andat least one or more images 130, as described below in connection withFIG. 3C. Computer 145 also receives signals representative of the speedof vehicles in traffic 105 from sensor 125 as the vehicles approach sign100.

OPERATION First Embodiment—FIGS. 1A through 1E

When sign 100 is energized, sensor 125 monitors the speed of vehicles intraffic 105 within a predetermined distance as they approach sign 100and feeds data compatible with this speed to computer 145. When atraffic signal is green or any vehicle reaches a predeterminedrelatively high speed, for example 40 km/h, the programmed instructionsin memory 150 cause static display 130′ (FIG. 1B) to be retrieved frommemory 150 and routed to sign 100 for display. Static display 130′ canbe either a graphic or blank. A static display is used when traffic ismoving relatively fast because drivers travelling at this speed do nothave time to follow a moving advertisement or display and can be undulydistracted.

Conversely, upon receiving data from sensor 125 that indicates vehicles105 are moving relatively slowly, for example 8 km/h or less, computer145 retrieves moving information for display 130 (FIG. 1A) from memory150 and routes it to sign 100. A moving display may be used at apredetermined relatively low speed such as stop-and-go rush-hour trafficwhen drivers have time to follow the message and are not likely to beunduly distracted. Although speeds of 8 and 40 km/h are used in thisexample, any other predetermined speeds can be used. Certain locales maylegislate the speeds, times of day, etc. when signs may be active,static, or blank. In one aspect, the embodiment has a manual overridecontrol 146 that permits manual control of the signs for emergencies andevents (such as parades) so that officials can take control in realtime, or for a predetermined period, after which the system isre-enabled. Control 146 is a panel-mounted or hand-held rotary switch,or the equivalent. This information is provided and controlled byresource 140.

Resource 140 sends updated display information to computer 145 at apredetermined rate so that displays 130 and 130′ always show the latestinformation. Display 130′ can include subordinate or short-termadvertising as indicated at 155 in FIG. 1B. For example, an advertisermay wish to offer discounts in order to attract business at slow timesof the day. If traffic control signal 102 and countdown display 104 arepresent, connection 142 (FIG. 1D) receives signals from traffic controllogic 143 and passes these signals to computer 145.

Optional short range FM or other broadcasting continues throughout thecycling of a moving and static or blank display.

FIG. 1E is a flowchart showing one aspect of operation of the presentembodiment. Instructions for this mode of operation are contained inmemory 150 of computer 145. At the start (block 170) sign 100 and system135 are energized. When manual override is selected by switch 146, theoperator (not shown) makes a manual selection (block 174) and chooses toretrieve and display a static display (block 176), to retrieve anddisplay a moving display (block 178), or to blank the display on sign100 (block 180). If manual override is not selected (block 172),computer 145 receives information about the speed of vehicles in traffic105 via sensor 125 (block 182). If traffic 105 is moving faster than apredetermined speed (block 184), computer 145 retrieves a static displayfrom memory 150 and displays it (block 186). If vehicles in traffic 105are moving at less than or equal to a predetermined speed (block 188),computer 145 retrieves a moving display from memory 150 and displays it.After a selection made at each choice point (blocks 172, 184, and 188)control of this aspect of the program running in computer 145 returns tothe first choice, i.e., manual override (block 172). Operation of sign100 continues this way until it is de-energized.

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION Optional Sign Placements on Roadways—FIGS. 2A,2B

FIG. 2A shows a roadway directional sign 200 accompanied by anadvertising and/or informational sign 100. Sign 100 is mounted besidesign 200 on beam 202. As in the first example, sensor 125 detects thespeed and direction of traffic 105 and relays speed data to computer 145(FIG. 1D) which determines whether moving display 130 or fixed display130′ will be shown on sign 100.

In this application, sign 100 can also be used to display roadwayinformation such as “Caution! Slow traffic for the next 5 miles.” Or itcan provide information such as that contained in well-known “AmberAlerts”, i.e., public service alerts about the welfare of children.

In lieu of being placed overhead, sign 100 can be mounted in afree-standing manner beside a roadway, as shown in FIG. 2B.

FIG. 2C shows the addition of vehicle recognition sensors 220 and 220′in the vicinity of sign 100, regardless of where it is mounted. Suchsensors are made by the Thales Group of Neuilly-sur-Seine Cedex, France,and Perceptics Imaging Technology Solutions of Knoxville, Tenn. Theseunits comprise cameras and software for the recognition of licenseplates on vehicles. Sensor 220 is positioned to capture the rear licenseplate information after a vehicle 210 has passed beneath sign 100.Sensor 220′ is arranged to capture the front license plate informationas a vehicle 215 approaches sign 100. License plate information and therelated model and year of each vehicle are used to determine driverdemographics and deliver selective advertising. Additionally, vehicleownership records cross indexed with available email and/or Internetaddresses facilitate delivery of advertising content specific to theinternet search history of vehicle occupants in much the same way as asearch engine uses stored search information to provide targetedadvertising. Presently available facial recognition software can beadded to these systems in order to identify occupants of vehicles forthe gathering of demographics and the tailoring of images 130 in signs100 to that group. Vehicle recognition systems can also be used inidentifying vehicles through windshield tags, RFID (radio-frequencyidentification) tags or other vehicle recognition systems, yieldinggeneral demographic information about the occupants. Recognition systems220 and 220′ are part of data resource 140 (FIG. 3B).

In addition to the above vehicle-recognition sensors, additional sensorsthat count and provide other information about passing vehicles may beemployed. FIG. 2C also shows such sensors as surface and subsurfacesensors 222 and 221, respectively. These sensors determine the number ofvehicles that have entered a designated area adjacent to a red (stop)light, for example ten vehicles deep in three lanes. Sensors 221 and 222are connected to computer 145 (FIG. 3B) and indicate the number andspeed of vehicles in traffic 105. Upon reaching a specified number ofvehicles, all of which are assumed to be stopped or moving very slowly,computer 145 causes display 100 to activated. This display is viewableby occupants in the vehicles, and then deactivated upon a green (go)light. Sensors 221 and 222 comprise optical, magnetic, force, pressure,and vibration sensors and are used with all signage configurationsdescribed herein. Many vendors supply these roadway sensors. Forexample, magnetic sensors are sold by the Honeywell Corporation ofMorristown, N.J., USA, optical sensors and counting devices are sold byJamar Technologies, Inc., of Hatfield, Pa., USA. and others.

Vehicle mounted black box systems and/or RFID tags (not shown) thattransmit vehicle data to roadside, road surface, or road-embeddedsensors can also be used to demographically identify vehicle occupantsor to serve to determine vehicle count within a defined area, inconnection with sign activation.

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION Additional Embodiments—FIGS. 2D through 2M

FIGS. 2D through 2I show means for selectively revealing a sign orportions of a sign to viewers at predetermined distances. FIGS. 2Dthrough 2G show a plurality of shutters 205 on a sign 100.

FIG. 2D includes a solar panel 230 to provide additional energy fordriving sign 100.

In FIGS. 2D to 2F two representative vehicles 210 and 215 are located atdifferent distances from sign 100. Vehicle 210 is near sign 100 andvehicle 215 is farther away. Shutters 205 extend the width of sign 100and are of a sufficient number, length, and angle with respect to sign100 and the distance between sign 100 and vehicle 210 so that occupantsin vehicle 210 are able to clearly see images on sign 100. Vehicle 215is at a greater distance from sign 100 than vehicle 210 and thedisposition of shutters 205 is such that shutters 205 largely block theview of sign 100 from occupants in vehicle 215. A pair of sight lines208 and 212 from vehicles 210 and 215 to sign 100 indicate the portionsof sign 100 that are visible at the two vehicular distances.

FIG. 2E is a side view indicating the portions of sign 100 visible tooccupants of vehicles 210 and 215. Sight lines 208 and 212 meet andcross at the outer edge of shutters 205. All of sign 100 is visible tothe occupants of vehicle 210 while the cross-hatched regions undershutters 205 are not visible to occupants of vehicle 215.

FIG. 2F is a side view of sign 100 with cross-hatching showing theportion of sign 100 that is not seen by vehicle 215.

FIG. 2G is a frontal view of sign 100 showing the portions of sign 100that are seen by vehicle 215 in the present aspect.

Simple geometry determines the relationship between the variables ofshutter number, length, and angle as a function of the distance ofvehicles 210 and 215.

FIGS. 2H through 2L show additional means of preventing an observeroutside of a predetermined distance range from the sign from viewing theimage on the sign, or conversely, allowing the image to be viewed onlyby observers within a predetermined distance range from the sign. Thisis accomplished by allowing observers within a predetermined verticalangular range of the sign to view the image. I.e., only observers whoview the sign within a predetermined range of viewing angles measured ina vertical plane which is perpendicular to the sign, display panel, orsurface of the sign will be able to view its image. These enabledobservers will be within a predetermined distance range from the sign.Observers who view the sign from outside this distance range will beoutside the predetermined range of viewing angles and will not be ableto see the image.

FIGS. 2H through 2J1 show a sign 100′ that projects two differentimages, each at a predetermined angle with respect to the plane of thedisplay. This aspect of the present embodiment employs a technology thathas been developed by Sharp Electronics, of Japan. This technology,called the “Sharp Dual Directional Viewing LCD” splits the light intoleft-of-center and right-of-center images within the display. A viewerpositioned to the left of center of the display sees a first image,while a viewer positioned to the right of center of the same displaysees a second image. In the present aspect, this dual directionalviewing LCD, and hence its displayed dual images are both rotated 90°,so that instead of horizontal left-and-right viewing, the sign presentstwo images that are displaced vertically from one-another. I.e.,observers at different vertical angles—and hence differentdistances—from the plane of the sign will see two different images.

FIG. 2H shows vehicles 210 and 215 and sight lines 208 and 212 as in theprevious example. FIGS. 2I and 2J1 show an active image 130 and a staticimage 130′ that are seen by occupants in vehicles 210 and 215,respectively. The longer sight line 212 and the ground below have azigzag portions to indicate that the distance from vehicle 215 to sign100 is compressed. Sign 100′ is tilted at a predetermined angle θ fromthe vertical in this example to better enable selection and fine-tuningof sight line angles for vehicles 210 and 215. However all signs can beat other angles, including vertical (90° from the horizontal). The samemanufacturer has announced a “Triple Directional Viewing LCD”. This LCDprovides three sight lines, instead of two for even greater viewingoptions. These signs, termed multi-directional viewing signs, enable thesimultaneous viewing of a plurality of images, a blank screen, or a darkscreen by occupants of vehicles at predetermined distances from thesigns.

This same manufacturer has also produced a “Switchable Viewing-AngleLiquid Crystal Display”. This display provides a narrow viewing angle sothat a viewer positioned to the left or right of center of the displaysees no image, while a viewer positioned at or near the center with anapproximate right angle view of the display is able to view an image.Such a directional viewable LCD display 100″ is shown in FIG. 2J2rotated 90° so that it will be viewable only by vehicles within apredetermined range of vertical viewing angles. I.e., the occupants of avehicle 210′, which is relatively close to display 100″, will view thedisplay at relatively large vertical angle (nearly 90°) as measured fromthe plane of the sign and thus will see the displayed message. The signwill also be viewable by the occupants of vehicle 210′ when it is withina range of other close distances or large angles (around 90°) to thedisplay. However the occupants of a vehicle 215′, which is relativelydistant from display 100″ and outside the range of viewable distancesand angles, will view the display at a relatively smaller vertical anglefrom the sign and thus will not be able to view the displayed image. Atpresent for sign 100″ that is mounted at the approximate angle shown(angle θ is about 40°), the viewable distance range may be from about 9m. to about 21 m. from the ground directly under the sign, where theviewable angular range depends on the height of the sign.

FIGS. 2K and 2L show sign 100 with predetermined restricted viewingangles. Whereas the sign in FIG. 2J2 illustrates an electronictechnology to restrict viewing of a sign according to a viewer'sdistance therefrom through restricting of a viewing angle, FIGS. 2K and2L, show an embodiment employing a film overlaid on a sign that can betilted to restrict the viewing angle. In these aspects, viewing anglesfor vehicles 105 are restricted by the use of a privacy filter, such asthe model ALCF-P ABR2, sold by 3M Company, of Minneapolis, Minn., USA.This filter is placed in front of and parallel to sign 100. It comprisesa plastic film that contains a plurality of louvers. At large verticalangles, i.e., nearly 90° or perpendicular to the surface of the sign,most of the light from the sign passes through the filter so as to beviewable by observers, such as those in vehicle 105, who are close tothe sign. At smaller viewing angles that are relatively far from orperpendicular to the sign, nearly all light from the sign will beblocked by the louvers. Thus the image on sign 100 can be selectivelyshown to vehicles nearer or farther away from sign 100 by tilting sign100 to predetermined angles. E.g., to allow only vehicles close to sign100 to view the information on the sign, it would be tilted down so thatsuch vehicles would see it since their line of sight is generallyperpendicular to the sign. To let only vehicles far from the sign seethe information the sign, it would be tilted up. In these figuresfilters 240 are oriented so that sign 100 is visible only by viewers whoare relatively close to the sign. By tilting sign 100 from a 43° angleto the ground or horizontal plane (FIG. 2K) to a 49° angle (FIG. 2L),for example, the sign becomes visible at a greater distance.

FIG. 2M shows a filter 240 oriented so that sign 100 is visible over ahorizontal angular range of 30° to either side of a plane perpendicularto the sign.

In addition to the horizontal or vertical filters, two of filters 240can be combined in series and at right angles to each other (not shown)so that sign 100 is visible within a narrow region bounded by 30°vertical and horizontal. Other angular ranges can be used.

In all of the preceding examples, sign 100 can be oriented vertically(so that the plane of sign 100 is perpendicular to the plane of theroadway beneath) or at other angles. In FIGS. 2K and 2L, sign 100 ismounted on a frame 251 that is secured to an arm 110 that extends from astanchion (FIG. 1A), or another mounting arrangement that supports frame251. A hinge 250 is positioned at the lower edge of sign 100, connectingsign 100 to frame 251 and permitting sign 100 to tilt downward at apredetermined angle. A drive assembly 252 comprises a motor and gearboxthat is rotatably connected to a pinion gear 253. Assembly 252 issecured to frame 251 near the upper edge of sign 100. A curved rack gear254, having a radius of curvature equal to the height of sign 100, isattached to sign 100 at one end and engages pinion gear 253 on driveassembly 252. When drive assembly 252 is energized, pinion gear 253rotates, urging gear 253 to move and thereby rotate the plane of sign100.

When the sign is vertical or at 90° with respect to the roadway beneath,as shown in FIG. 1, sign 100 is seen from the greatest distance, i.e.,the maximum audience, by occupants in vehicles 105. When tilted at 49°to the ground, as shown in FIG. 2L, sign 100 is seen by occupants infewer vehicles; and when tilted at 43°, as shown in FIG. 2K, still feweroccupants are able to see sign 100.

This selection of the size of the viewing audience is useful inmaximizing display exposure at different times for use with a tilteddisplay as well as other configurations described. For example, duringrush hour, if it is known that vehicles within a depth of ten vehicleswill be stopped or slowly moving within six seconds of a red light, sign100 can be tilted so that its viewing range is limited to the depth often vehicles and then activated following those six seconds.

In addition to LCD signs, various other technologies, such aslight-emitting diode signs, can be utilized in some of these sameapplications.

Drive assembly 252 is energized by instructions from computer 145 (FIG.1D). If drive assembly 252 contains a well-known stepper motor, theangle of sign 100 is determined by counting the number of energizingpulses applied to the motor. If another type of motor, i.e. a DC or anAC motor, a feedback mechanism (not shown) such as a rotary encoderprovides this angular information to computer 145. The energy sourceused for sign 100 also powers drive assembly 252. Sign 100 with itsattached panel 240 can be tilted at any angle from 0 to 90° with respectto the plane of the roadway beneath.

This same arrangement is used with shutters 205 on sign 100, as shown inFIGS. 2D through 2G, with plain signs, such as in FIG. 1A as well as adual directional viewing sign as shown in FIG. 2H.

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION Second Alt. Embod.—Sign On Vehicle—FIGS. 3A & 9A

Mounting sign 100 on a vehicle provides additional targeted advertisingcapabilities. A global positioning system (GPS) is added, along withlocation-targeted advertising.

Swing-Up Sign Mounted on the Rear of a Vehicle

FIG. 3A shows a vehicle 300A with a sign 100 mounted on its rear end.Sign 100 is optionally mounted on vehicle 300A by one or more hinges 305that allow sign 100 to be lifted up and away from the rear of vehicle300A for access to the rear of the vehicle. In normal use, sign 100 ispositioned fully downward as shown and secured in that position bysprings within hinges 305 or a latching mechanism (not shown).

An additional banner sign 310 is shown affixed to the rear of vehicle300A. Sign 310 displays additional messages in a similar manner as sign100. This banner can also be displayed as a “crawler” or moving sign(not shown) along the bottom of sign 100, as such are commonly know intelevision broadcasting. In particular, it can display time-sensitiveinformation such as would direct a viewer to tune in to a short range FMbroadcast or select a particular radio station, although other messagescan be displayed.

FIG. 3B shows an electronic control system 135′ which is similar tosystem 135 (FIG. 1C), but which also controls the operation of banner310 and, in one aspect, receives location data from an included GPS 315.In one aspect, system 135′ further receives a portion of its operatingenergy from a solar panel 230. In another aspect, system 135′ furtherincludes a short-range FM, AM, and cell phone broadcast system 325 thattransmits information associated with display 130 on sign 100.

GPS 315 provides location data to computer 145 as vehicle 300A movesfrom one location to another. Computer 145 receives location-specificinformation from data resource 140 and is programmed to cause sign 100and banner 310 to display this information (135 or 135′) in either amoving form or a static (visual or blank) form, depending on the speedof vehicle 300 and the other vehicles 105 (FIGS. 1 and 2) in itsvicinity. In addition, a portion 320 of display 135 is devoted todisplaying location-sensitive information, such as proximity to apredetermined business or other venue.

FIG. 3C is a flow chart showing the operation of system 135′ accordingto one aspect of the present embodiment. In this example, system 135′ isconnected to each sign or broadcasting modality previously discussed,i.e., a broadcast system, a banner sign, and a roadway or vehicle sign.After being energized (block 340), computer 145 periodically tests forthe availability of data from resource 140, for example once per day atmidnight or any other time at which resource 140 and system 135′ areoperative (block 342). This testing is done via data link 141 (FIGS. 1Cand 3B) that connects computer 145 to data resource 140 via satellite,radio, internet, wired connection, and the like. When information isavailable from data resource 140, it is downloaded via data link 141 tocomputer 145 where it is stored in memory 150 (bock 344).

Next, computer 145 determines whether the information received is for abroadcast system (block 346) and if so, sends the information tobroadcast system 325 (block 348). When information for a broadcast issent to broadcast system 325, system 135′ tests to see if the GPSrequirement contained in the broadcast information is met (block 350),i.e., is the broadcast system located within the parameters supplied bythe advertiser and relayed through data resource 140. If this is true,system 135′ next tests to see if the duration of the broadcast has beenexceeded (block 352). If the duration of the broadcast has not beenexceeded, control reverts to block 350 and loops through blocks 350 and352 until either the GPS requirement is not met, i.e., the vehicle isoutside the predetermined advertising area, or the predeterminedduration of the broadcast has been exceeded. In either case, i.e. if theGPS requirement is not met or the duration of the broadcast has beenexceeded. If either of these is true, control advances to block 354 andthe broadcast is stopped. After the broadcast is stopped, controlreverts to memory 150 to determine if additional broadcasts are storedthere and ready for use.

Operation for signage is similar to that for broadcast. While computer145 continually checks the GPS and duration requirements of thebroadcast system (blocks 350 and 352), computer 145 also advancescontrol to block 358 to see if memory 150 contains new information forbanner sign 310 (FIG. 3A). If so, this information is sent to the bannersign (block 360). As described above, the GPS and duration requirementsare tested (blocks 362 and 364). When the GPS requirement is not met orthe required duration of banner sign 310 has been exceeded, controladvances to block 354, sign 310 is cleared, and memory 150 of computer145 is checked for new information.

While computer 145 tests the requirements for banner sign 310 andbroadcast system 325, it also tests to see if information is availablein memory 150 of computer 145 (block 344) for a roadway or vehicle sign100 (block 370). If the information is for a roadway or vehicle sign,the information, including both static and moving images, is sent to thesign (block 372). As above, the GPS requirement is tested (block 374)and in this case, the low speed requirement, discussed above, is alsotested (block 376). If the low speed requirement is not met, i.e. if thevehicle is moving faster than a predetermined speed or vehicles aremoving past a sign 100 at greater than a predetermined speed, the staticsign image 130′ (FIG. 1, for example) is displayed (block 382). If thelow speed requirement is met, i.e. if vehicles are traveling at lessthan the predetermined speed, a moving sign is shown (block 380). Asbefore, the duration of the sign's image is tested. If the predeterminedduration for displaying either sign is exceeded, control advances toblock 354, as before and the signage is cleared and readied for the nextdisplay. If the duration is not exceeded, control returns to block 374and loops through blocks 376, 380, 382, and 384 until the duration isexceeded or the GPS requirement is no longer met.

System 135 operates in the same manner as system 135′, except the addedfeatures of GPS, etc. are not present. The above is but one example ofmany aspects possible with this embodiment. The actual programming stepsare determined by conditions at the location of the signage, advertisingdemand, local restrictions, and the like.

Repositionable Sign

FIG. 4 shows one aspect of a sign 100 mounted atop a vehicle 300B.Sensor antenna 125 is positioned at or near the top of sign 100 andfaces rearward. Sign 100 is secured to one or more bars 400 anddeflectors that are secured to the roof of vehicle 300B with a slidablepivot 405. A pivot arm 410 is attached to the side of sign 100 at afirst end and a pivot point 415 on vehicle 300B at a second end. Sign100 is movable between the elevated position shown in solid lines andthe lowered position shown in dashed lines. As it moves up and down,sign 100 is held in a somewhat vertical position by arm 410. Sign 100 isin the elevated position when the vehicle moves at a speed below apredetermined threshold, and in the lowered position above thepredetermined threshold speed. Sign 100 is moved up and down by a simplemechanism such as a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, a motor, or thelike (not shown). The raising and lowering mechanism is under control ofsystem 135 or 135′, as described above.

An alternative mounting of sign 100 on a vehicle 300C is shown in FIG.5. In this aspect, sign 100 pivots about a pivot 500. Sign 100 is urgedto move up or down by any of several mechanisms. For example, pivot 500may contain a spring that allows sign 100 to pivot downward when vehicle300C is driven forward above a predetermined speed. Alternatively, amotor or cylinder can be used, as discussed in connection with FIG. 4.In this embodiment, sign 100 can face forward or rearward with respectto vehicle 300C. An additional sign 100 can be added so that two signs100 face both forward and rearward for additional advertising coverage.Sign or signs 100 in this embodiment are controlled by system 135 or135′, as described above.

Sign 100 can be mounted diagonally on a vehicle 300C as shown in FIG. 6.Sign 100 is oriented to face opposing traffic and display 135 is activewhen traffic is stopped or moving below a predetermined threshold speed,as sensed by sensor 125. A second sign 100 (not shown) can be added andoriented to face traffic on the opposite side of vehicle 300C. A thirdsign 100 (not shown) can be added and oriented to face toward the rearof vehicle 300. Each sign can be equipped with its own sensor 125 andreceive independent data feeds from system 135 (FIG. 3B).

Sign 100 may be mounted on the rear of a bus or recreational vehicle300D or delivery vehicle 300E as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Sign 100 may be secured to the rear of a delivery vehicle 300F by hinges305, as shown in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9B shows sign 100 in its normal positionusing solid lines and in its alternate position using dashed lines.Lifting sign 100 to its alternate position permits access to the rear ofvehicle 300F.

An alternative mounting for sign 100 is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. Thismounting method is useful when sign 100 will be exposed to strong winds.Tilting sign 100 with respect to the direction of the wind reduces theforce of the wind on sign 100 and its mount, reducing the potential fordamage to sign 100 and the object, such as the roof of a vehicle or afixed stanchion, to which sign 100 is secured.

Sign 100 is secured to a post 1000 by a pivot 1005 about which sign 100can rotate. In the absence of wind, a spring 1020 urges sign 100 torotate clockwise about pivot 1005. Pivot 1005 is located away from thecenter of sign 100 so that when wind strikes the front of sign 100,torque about pivot 1005 causes sign 100 to rotate in the directionindicated in FIG. 10B.

A curved, arm 1010 with an interior slot 1025 is secured to post 1000. Apin 1015 is secured to sign 100 and is captive in slot 1025. Pin 1015moves slidably within slot 1025 as sign 100 rotates about pivot 1005.Pin 1015 normally rests against the lower end of slot 1025, urged thereby the counterclockwise torque exerted on sign 100 by spring 1020.

If wind from the left strikes the front of sign 100, it exerts a torqueon sign 100 as shown in FIG. 10B by the curved arrow. If the windpartially overcomes the force exerted by spring 1020, sign 100 rotatesabout pivot 1005. The rotational travel of sign 100 is limited by theavailable travel of pin 1015 within slot 1025 of arm 1020. When the windforce on sign 100 is below a predetermined amount, spring 1020 urgessign 100 back to a vertical position as shown in FIG. 10A.

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION Additional Capabilities of Active Signage

Usage of the signage described above has real advertising value,including the duration of messages, the use of messages targeted tospecific locations and specific demographics. The advertisers whosemessages are displayed make payment to the managers, licensees, and/orowners of the signs according to these demographics, the duration ofdisplay of a message, and so forth. This signage provides an opportunityfor small business owners and others to present an advertising messageto a highly targeted local market at a cost considerably below TV andother mass media. For example, a small family or carry out restaurantcan inform motorists that one kilometer ahead they can pickup dinner onthe way home or make reservations. A merchant can make offers forproducts or services that can be purchased by vehicle occupants andothers by cell phone, the Internet, or other means. Such in-vehiclecommerce is likely to increase substantially as self-driving vehicles,currently under development, become more commonplace. The effectivenessof such advertising can be measured very quickly.

The nature of the advertising can be used as a demographic on a largerscale. For example, a company with national sales can learn ways tooptimize their advertising at new locales by noting the duration andkinds of ads placed by local vendors at other similar locales.

At present, buses and freight-carrying vehicles have built-in GPSdevices that relay their location to a central headquarters location.Other information about the vehicle, such as hours of continuousoperation, number, duration, and location of stops and the like can bededuced from this information as well. In the future, it is anticipatedthat vehicles will contain “black box” transponders of a similar nature,including RFID tags, that relay information about the vehicle and itsoperator to one or more central locations. This information can begathered by data resource 140 of system 135 or 135′ in order to furthercustomize the operation of signs 100, and to gather demographics aswell.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

I have provided an improved advertising display system for use in thevicinity of vehicular traffic. Signs used in my system can convey videoinformation, still information, and can be blank. A sensor comprisingradar, sonar, lidar, infrared, vibration, pressure, video or othersystem senses movement of vehicles in the vicinity of my sign andreports this information to the electronic system that controls thesign. When nearby traffic is moving above a predetermined speed, my signis caused to be either still or blank. When nearby traffic is stopped ormoving below a predetermined speed, my sign displays changinginformation such as videos or a series of changing images. By operatingin this way, my sign maximizes the impact of advertisements whileminimizing distraction of nearby drivers. One aspect of my signagesystem gathers billing information depending on the location andduration of each advertiser's message. In another aspect, my signagesystem gathers demographic information and reports it to receivingparties through an associated data resource. In another aspect, mysignage system uses GPS data to determine where a sign's message is tobe displayed for the greatest advertising impact.

My system provides a business method whereby a governmental unitgranting display erection rights, and optionally electrical service andtraffic control system access, on its property for advertising purposes,shall receive a percentage of the revenue generated by advertisingconducted through said display. For example, after a 35% overhead burdenis subtracted, all remaining revenue is shared on an equal, or someother, basis between the government and the advertising media operator.Such a public-private partnership is unique, as compared to, forexample, franchise fees which cable TV companies pays the localfranchising authority for the right to access public rights of way tooffer cable service. Effectively serving as a public-privatepartnership, it shall provide a major revenue stream for municipalitiesand counties with little or no additional cost to taxpayers. Inasmuch asa display mounted on government property requires an easement, licenseand or permits of various types and descriptions, it is advantageous topartner with said governments to motivate their participation. My systemis a free market concept in that each party contributes something to thewhole and neither is parasitic. It shall use existing infrastructure andpower sources for display support, which would otherwise cost manymillions of dollars and take years to erect. My system is especially ofvalue to densely populated cities suffering from revenue declines, highcrime and lack of adequate police and other services shall benefitgreatly from a revenue windfall.

While the above description contains many specificities, these shouldnot be construed as limitations on the scope, but as exemplifications ofsome present embodiments. Many other ramifications and variations arepossible within the teachings. Additional features can be added, such asa sound system that provides audible information to nearby drivers andpedestrians. My sign can be used to provide roadway information such asnotification of accidents or traffic ahead, child protectioninformation, and the like. My sign can be used singly or with othersigns and it can range from large to small. It can be used to displaythree-dimensional anaglyphs. The information can be displayed inmonochrome or full color.

Thus the scope should be determined by the appended claims and theirlegal equivalents, rather than the examples and particulars given.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A roadway signage system, comprising: anelectronic control system comprising a memory for storing an image andproviding an electronic signal representing said image, a directionalviewing sign arranged to receive said electronic signal representingsaid image, said directional viewing sign being arranged to display saidimage in response to said electronic signal such that said image will beviewable by observers in vehicles over a predetermined range of verticalviewing angles from said sign, but observers in vehicles who are notwithin said predetermined range of vertical viewing angles from saidsign will not be able to view said image due to a blocking mechanismarranged at said sign, and at least one motion sensor arranged to detectspeed of vehicles within said predetermined range, whereby when novehicle within said predetermined range is moving, said sign displays amoving or changing image, and in response to the movement of at leastone vehicle within said predetermined range, said sign will deactivateor show a static or blank display.
 2. The roadway signage system ofclaim 1 wherein said directional viewing sign is selected from the groupconsisting of a single-view sign, a multi-directional viewing sign, asign with a privacy filter thereon, and other directional viewing signs,located and arranged so that only occupants of vehicles that are withinsaid predetermined range of vertical viewing angles from said sign areable to view said image.
 3. The roadway signage system of claim 1,wherein said motion sensor is selected from the group consisting ofradar, sonar, lidar, infrared, video, magnetic, vibration, RFID, andpressure sensors or other optical or magnetic sensing means.
 4. Theroadway signage system of claim 1 wherein said sign further includes atraffic control signal.
 5. The roadway signage system of claim 1 whereinsaid directional viewing sign is mounted over a roadway.
 6. The roadwaysignage system of claim 1 wherein said control system is connected tosaid sign by means selected from the group consisting of satellite,radio, television, Internet, wired connections, and any other means ofconnection.
 7. The roadway signage system of claim 1, further includinga broadcast system connected to said control system and arranged tobroadcast information by means selected from the group consisting of FM,AM, television, satellite, on line, and cell phone means.
 8. The roadwaysignage system of claim 1, further including a plurality of shuttersattached to said sign, said shutters being arranged to partially block aportion of said images from view of vehicles that are farther than apredetermined distance from said sign while not blocking any portion ofsaid images from view of vehicles that are nearer than saidpredetermined distance from said sign, whereby all of said sign isvisible from vehicles closer to said sign than said predetermineddistance and only a portion of said sign is visible from vehiclesfarther from said sign than said predetermined distance.
 9. The roadwaysignage system of claim 1, further including a drive assembly fortilting said sign a predetermined amount, said drive assembly beingresponsive to said electronic control system, whereby when instructed bysaid electronic control system said sign tilts said predetermined amountso that said sign is visible to more or less of vehicular traffic. 10.The roadway signage system of claim 1 wherein said roadway signagesystem further includes a plurality of cameras and software forrecognizing and storing information selected from the group includingfacial recognition of occupants in said vehicles, license plates on saidvehicles and make and model year of said vehicles.
 11. The roadwaysignage system of claim 1, further including a transponder for sendingdemographic information to a data resource.
 12. A roadway signagesystem, comprising: a directional viewing sign mounted over a roadwayand including a privacy filter arranged on said sign such that said signdisplays at least a first image that is viewable at a predeterminedrange of vertical viewing angles from said sign so that an occupant ofat least one vehicle that is within said predetermined range of verticalviewing angles from said sign is able to view said first image, butoccupants of vehicles not within said predetermined range of verticalviewing angles from said sign are not able to view said first image dueto a blocking mechanism arranged at said sign, a data resource providingat least said first image, an electronic control system comprising amemory and a computer for communicating between said sign, said dataresource, and said memory so as to be able to cause said sign to displaysaid first image, and at least one motion sensor arranged to detectspeed of said at least one vehicle on said roadway within saidpredetermined range of vertical viewing angles from said sign, wherebywhen no vehicle within said predetermined range is moving, said signdisplays a moving or changing image, and in response to the movement ofat least one vehicle within said predetermined range, said sign willdeactivate or show a static or blank display.
 13. The roadway signagesystem of claim 12, wherein said motion sensor is selected from thegroup consisting of radar, sonar, lidar, infrared, video, magnetic,vibration, RFID, pressure sensors, and other optical or magnetic sensingmeans.
 14. The roadway signage system of claim 12, further including adrive assembly for tilting said sign a predetermined amount, said driveassembly being responsive to said electronic control system, wherebywhen instructed by said electronic control system said sign tilts saidpredetermined amount so that said sign is visible to more or less ofvehicular traffic.
 15. A method for displaying information in a vicinityof a vehicular roadway, comprising: providing a directional viewingsign, above a roadway, selected from the group consisting of asingle-view sign, a multi-directional viewing sign, a privacy filter ona sign, and other directional viewing signs, said sign being arranged todisplay at least a first image at a predetermined range of verticalviewing angles from said sign such that occupants of vehicles withinsaid predetermined range of vertical viewing angles from said sign willbe able to view said first image, but occupants of vehicles not withinsaid predetermined range of vertical viewing angles from said sign willnot be able to view said image due to a blocking mechanism arranged atsaid sign, said sign including at least one motion sensor arranged todetect speed of at least one vehicle on said roadway within saidpredetermined range of vertical viewing angles from said sign, wherebywhen no vehicle within said predetermined range is moving, said signdisplays a moving or changing image, and in response to the movement ofat least one vehicle within said predetermined range, said sign willdeactivate or show a static or blank display.
 16. The method of claim 15wherein said sign is provided within view of traffic on said roadway,said non-moving image is selected from the group consisting of moving,still, blank, and dark information, and further including providing adata resource for supplying said information for display by said sign,and providing a control system comprising a computer and a memory andconnected to said sign, said data resource, and said at least one motionsensor for detecting said speed of said traffic, and arranged to selectsaid information supplied by said data resource based on said speed anddirection of said traffic.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein saidmotion sensor is selected from the group consisting of radar, sonar,lidar, infrared, video, magnetic, vibration, RFID, and pressure sensorsor other optical or magnetic sensing means.
 18. The method of claim 16,whereby at least one governmental unit receives a calculated percentageor portion of revenue generated by advertising conducted through saiddisplay.
 19. The method of claim 18, whereby a percentage or portion ofsaid revenue is specifically designated for construction, repair ormaintenance of public roadways, bridges or other right of ways.